Remembering Valerie Wyatt

Some people find joy in nature. Others spend their lives helping others notice it more closely.

Valerie Wyatt was one of those people. Birds were a consistent thread throughout her life – present in the way she observed the world, the interests she pursued, and the attention she gave to sharing that appreciation with others.

Valerie, who passed away on May 26, 2026, was a long-time supporter of Biome Conservation.

Val was deeply devoted to her family. She was a loving wife for 30 years to Paul Grant, a proud and caring mother to Colin and Jocelyn, and a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Her family remembers her as steady, thoughtful, and present in both everyday moments and times of importance. 

She had a quiet attentiveness to the natural world, especially birds, that was present throughout her life. It appeared in how she noticed her surroundings and in the care she brought to sharing that interest with others. 

Her connection to birds and nature also shaped parts of her professional life, including her work on bird-related projects, her time at Stantec, her ownership of Wild Birds Unlimited in Guelph along with her husband and parents from 1997-2021, as well as being co-owner with her husband of Vortex Canada from 2003 to the time of her passing. In each of these settings, she helped others engage more closely with the natural world. 

Even in the face of multiple system atrophy, Val remained focused on her family and the time she was able to share with them. Those closest to her remember her calm strength, kindness, intelligence and the importance she placed on being present with the people she loved. 

We are honoured that Val chose to support Biome Conservation over many years. Her support reflected a lifelong interest in birds and habitat protection, and in ensuring that the natural world continues to be appreciated and cared for in the future. 

Today, contributions made in Valerie’s memory continue that legacy. They support conservation efforts working to protect wildlife and ecosystems in critical regions, grounded in local leadership and long-term stewardship. 

For those who knew and loved her, Val’s memory is carried forward most strongly in the family she shaped, the relationships she strengthened, and the care she brought to the world around her. 

Our heartfelt condolences go to Paul, Colin, Jocelyn, and the entire Wyatt and Grant families. Valerie’s passing is deeply felt, and her legacy continues in the lives she touched and the conservation work her support helped sustain. 

We are grateful to have received several gifts in Valerie’s memory. Each one reflects the connections she made and the values she lived by. These tributes will be shared with her family.